Tartar Bread Plant

Crambe tatarica

Physical Characteristics

Crambe tatarica is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Europe to W. Asia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Leaves and young stems- raw or cooked[2, 46, 74]. Usually blanched in much the same way as seakale (C. maritima)[61, 183]. Root - raw or cooked[105]. The root, which can be as thick as a person's arm, is fleshy and sweet[2, 183]. It can be used raw in salads, or be cooked as a vegetable[2]. It can be dried and ground into a powder, then mixed with cereal flours when making bread[2]. The root is rich in starch and sugars[74].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known